There’s a chill in the air, a spring in our steps, and an abundance of well-dressed people running around New York City—Fashion Month is here.
Every September, we’re greeted by a sartorial feast of inspiration on the runways (and in the streets). While the clothing is the main event, it’s always interesting to see what beauty trends will blossom from the looks.
Often, designers choose to go with pared-down beauty looks to let their clothes do the talking, but this year, bold makeup helped collections stand out. ELLE beauty editors went backstage to see all of the best beauty looks in action. For spring 2025, there were plenty of bold eyes, statement lips, and unexpected pops of color. Keep reading for some of our favorite makeup trends and the best products to try them with.
Color Block
An unexpected shock of color can make you do a double-take, and that’s exactly what many of this season’s best makeup looks did. At Sandy Liang, models sported chalky, baby pink lips that looked like they might glow in the dark. At Ulla Johnson, a hint of green on the waterline added intrigue to otherwise minimal makeup looks. And at Diotima, models fluttered bright eyelashes. “Red and white accents are reflected in the colorful eyelashes for drama and definition,” said Kanako Takase, the Addiction Tokyo creative director and makeup artist behind the looks at Diotoma.
Red Again
In case you haven’t heard, we’re seeing red again. Red lipstick has been having a bit of a renaissance lately, and this year’s runways are proving it. Though red is a bold color, it’s still feminine. At Alice + Olivia, models sported glossy red lips. “That’s very heavily inspired by the 1950s—classic, timeless beauty,” said makeup artist Michela Wariebi for Tarte. At Maria McManus, models sported a French girl staple—matte red lips with minimal makeup.
Up in Smoke
Smoky eyes are ready for a renaissance. At Tibi, models showed a pared-down version of the makeup look with just a hint of dusty shadow under their eyes using Bobbi Brown products. Area, on the other hand, went the maximalist route, with punk rock-inspired, dramatic smoky eyes and deep, oxblood lips.
Mixed Metals
A sure way to amp up any look is by adding a flash of metal. At Christian Siriano, flicks of bronze eyeliner helped bring even more drama to the clothes. “I wanted the power to come from the eyes,” said makeup artist Vincent Oquendo with Revlon. “I wanted it to be beautiful, dangerous, and powerful.” Laquan Smith also opted for metallic accents with a glimmer of chrome on the inner corners of the eyes.